Saturday's stage was shortened from 220km to 190km on Friday night after race organisers decided to pull the controversial climb and descent of the Monte Crostis.

Confusion reigned during the race prior to the ascent of the Zoncolan when the route was altered yet again following alleged protests at the foot of the Monte Taulis, a short second-category climb that has been introduced to replace the Crostis.

As a result, a further 20km was taken off the stage. This led to an initial panic from the peloton, who had let a three-man breakaway ride 12 minutes up the road.

Some frantic pace setting by the Liquigas team of Nibali saw the advantage whittled down to just three minutes at the foot of the day's showpiece finale.

Italian rookies Gianluca Brambilla (Colnago) and Matteo Rabottini (Farnese Vini) were first to be caught, the veteran Dutchman Bram Tankink (Rabobank) managing to hold on until the final five kilometres before being swept up by Anton and his pursuers.

Joaquim Rodriguez (Katusha) had made an early break on the 18 per cent gradient slopes of the Zoncolan, but the Spaniard soon tired once Anton made his move.

Until the closing two kilometres, Anton never rode more than 30 metres further up the road than race leader Contador. But the 28-year-old turned on the style towards the finish, opening up a comfortable cushion before saluting the tifosi as he passed triumphantly under the banner.

Twelve months ago, Ivan Basso won convincingly atop the Zoncolan on his way to the overall victory in Milan.

This year, the pink jersey seems destined to adorn the shoulders of the ruthless Contador all the way to the finish.

The Giro continues on Sunday with a long 229km trek from Conegliano to Gardeccia-Val di Fassa. The route includes the Giau, the race's highest point, as well as the dreaded Fedaia climb and the gruelling summit finish.